15 Other Ways to Say “However” (With Examples)

Enhancing your writing starts with exploring other ways to say “however”, making your transitions smoother and more engaging. Using the same word repeatedly can make your text feel repetitive, so switching it up keeps readers interested.

A well-chosen alternative improves clarity and flow, helping your message stand out. Try different options to find what fits your style best!

What Can I Use Instead of “However” In A Sentence?

Below is a list of 15 other ways to say “however”:

1. But
2. Nevertheless
3. Nonetheless
4. Still
5. Yet
6. Though
7. Although
8. Even so
9. For all that
10. Despite that
11. In spite of that
12. Anyway
13. Anyhow
14. Be that as it may
15. Having said that

1. But

“But” is a simple, direct conjunction that introduces a statement contrasting with something previously mentioned, much like “however.” It’s informal and versatile, seamlessly shifting the focus to an opposing idea without fuss.

Its brevity makes it ideal for everyday conversations or writing where clarity trumps formality, offering a straightforward way to pivot thoughts while keeping the tone light and accessible.

Unlike “however,” it blends into the sentence naturally, avoiding any heavy emphasis.

Example 1: Imagine your friend is complaining about a rainy camping trip that ruined their weekend plans. You want to acknowledge their frustration but point out a silver lining. You say: “I get it, the weather was awful, but you still got some great photos by the lake!”

Example 2: Picture your coworker stressing over a missed deadline on a group project. You reassure them while shifting focus: “The client was annoyed, but we pulled it together in the end and they loved the final draft.”

2. Nevertheless

“Nevertheless” carries a formal, resolute tone, signaling a contrast to “however” with a sense of persistence or defiance.

It suggests that despite the preceding point, the following statement holds true, making it perfect for arguments or discussions where you want to assert strength or determination.

Its slightly old-fashioned feel adds weight, fitting well in written essays or speeches rather than casual chats. Compared to “however,” it’s less neutral and more emphatic.

Example 1: Suppose your sister doubts she’ll pass her finals after a tough semester. You encourage her: “The classes were brutal this year, nevertheless, you’ve studied hard and I know you’ll ace those exams!”

Example 2: Imagine a team meeting where your boss questions your risky proposal. You defend it: “The budget’s tight, nevertheless, this strategy could double our outreach by next quarter.”

3. Nonetheless

“Nonetheless” is a polished alternative to “however,” offering a subtle yet firm contrast with a touch of sophistication.

It implies that the following point stands despite what’s been said, often used in formal writing or discussions to maintain a smooth, logical flow.

Its tone is less forceful than “nevertheless,” making it versatile for both professional and casual contexts where you want to sound reasoned rather than argumentative.

Example 1: Picture your friend lamenting a failed job interview. You lift their spirits: “The competition was fierce, nonetheless, you made it to the final round—that’s huge!”

Example 2: Imagine explaining a hiking mishap to your parents. You say: “The trail was steeper than expected, nonetheless, we reached the summit and the view was worth it.”

4. Still

“Still” is a quiet, understated substitute for “however,” introducing a contrast with a sense of calm persistence.

It suggests that despite the prior statement, the situation remains unchanged or another truth endures, fitting well in reflective or conversational settings.

Its simplicity makes it less formal than “however,” ideal for softening a shift in thought while keeping things relatable and gentle.

Example 1: Suppose your roommate is upset about a noisy neighbor disrupting their sleep. You sympathize but shift focus: “The walls are thin, still, it’s a cozy place and the rent’s unbeatable.”

Example 2: Imagine your dad worrying about your car breaking down on a road trip. You reassure him: “It’s an old clunker, still, it got me across three states without a hitch.”

5. Yet

“Yet” is a concise, flexible word that mirrors “however” by introducing an unexpected twist or contradiction.

It carries a subtle sense of surprise or irony, making it suitable for both casual and formal contexts where you want to highlight an intriguing contrast.

Compared to “however,” it’s less explicit, blending into the sentence and inviting the listener to ponder the shift in logic or outcome.

Example 1: Picture your cousin grumbling about a long workday. You counter with: “The shift was exhausting, yet you finished that big project ahead of schedule—impressive!”

Example 2: Imagine chatting with a friend about a movie flop. You say: “The reviews were terrible, yet the special effects kept me glued to the screen.”

Related Post: 15 Other Ways to Say But (With Examples)

6. Though

“Though” offers a softer, more conversational take on “however,” often placed at the end or middle of a sentence for a reflective tone.

It acknowledges a counterpoint with a casual shrug, making it great for informal exchanges where you don’t want to sound too rigid.

Unlike “however,” it feels less like a standalone pivot and more like an afterthought, perfect for lightening a discussion.

Example 1: Suppose your friend is nervous about hosting a dinner with little cooking skill. You reassure them: “The recipe’s tricky, though you’ve got a knack for making it work!”

Example 2: Imagine your sibling complaining about a cold beach day. You say: “The water was freezing, though we had fun building that sandcastle anyway.”

7. Although

“Although” is a formal conjunction that contrasts with “however” by embedding the opposing idea within the sentence structure.

It introduces a subordinate clause, suggesting a condition or exception, and fits best in written or structured speech where clarity and precision matter.

It’s less abrupt than “however,” weaving the contrast seamlessly into the narrative for a polished effect.

Example 1: Picture your mom worrying about your late-night study habits. You explain: “Although the exams are tough, I’m managing to keep my grades up.”

Example 2: Imagine your boss questioning your team’s overtime. You respond: “Although the hours were long, we delivered the project right on time.”

8. Even so

“Even so” is a gentle, balanced phrase that echoes “however” with a tone of quiet acceptance.

It acknowledges the prior point but insists on a contrasting truth, making it ideal for conversations where you want to concede something yet maintain your stance.

Less formal than “however,” it’s versatile for both spoken and written contexts, offering a smooth, understated transition.

Example 1: Suppose your friend regrets skipping a concert for work. You console them: “The show sold out fast, even so, you nailed that presentation today.”

Example 2: Imagine your neighbor grumbling about a stormy picnic. You say: “The rain was a mess, even so, the kids had a blast splashing around.”

9. For all that

“For all that” is an old-fashioned, nuanced alternative to “however,” suggesting a contrast despite everything mentioned before.

It carries a reflective, almost poetic quality, fitting for storytelling or introspective writing where you want to weigh circumstances thoughtfully.

Compared to “however,” it’s less common today, adding a unique flavor to formal or literary contexts.

Example 1: Picture your grandpa reminiscing about tough times. He says: “The farm struggled that year, for all that, we had each other and that was enough.”

Example 2: Imagine writing to a friend about a failed vacation. You note: “The hotel was a letdown, for all that, the beach sunsets made it worthwhile.”

10. Despite that

“Despite that” is a crisp, direct phrase that contrasts with “however” by emphasizing resilience against a prior point.

It suggests the following statement prevails regardless of obstacles, making it suitable for assertive or practical discussions.

Less formal than “however,” it’s great for casual exchanges or writing where you want to sound grounded and decisive.

Example 1: Suppose your teammate doubts a tight deadline. You rally them: “The schedule’s brutal, despite that, we’ve got the skills to pull it off.”

Example 2: Imagine your mom fretting over a rainy wedding day. You say: “The forecast was grim, despite that, the ceremony was beautiful indoors.”

Related Post: 15 Other Ways to Say “On The Other Hand” (With Examples) 

11. In spite of that

“In spite of that” mirrors “however” with a tone of defiance, highlighting a contrast that overcomes adversity. It’s slightly more formal than “despite that,” often used in writing or speech to stress perseverance.

This phrase fits contexts where you want to underscore strength or surprise, offering a robust alternative to “however” with a hint of grit.

Example 1: Picture your friend sulking after losing a game. You cheer them: “The other team was stacked, in spite of that, you scored the best goal!”

Example 2: Imagine your dad lamenting a car repair bill. You say: “The cost was steep, in spite of that, we’re back on the road for the trip.”

12. Anyway

“Anyway” is a breezy, informal stand-in for “however,” brushing aside the previous point to move forward.

It’s conversational and dismissive, perfect for casual chats where you want to shift gears without dwelling on the contrast. Unlike “however,” it’s less about logic and more about flow, making it a laid-back choice for storytelling or banter.

Example 1: Suppose your sibling groans about a boring lecture. You pivot: “The professor droned on, anyway, you aced the quiz after, right?”

Example 2: Imagine your friend griping about a flat tire. You say: “The delay was a pain, anyway, we still made it to the party in time.”

13. Anyhow

“Anyhow” is a folksy, relaxed twist on “however,” introducing a contrast with a shrug of indifference. It’s informal and slightly quirky, great for lightening a discussion or wrapping up a tangent.

Compared to “however,” it feels less deliberate, fitting casual exchanges where you want to keep things loose and friendly.

Example 1: Picture your cousin venting about a crowded mall. You reply: “The lines were endless, anyhow, you snagged that jacket you wanted!”

Example 2: Imagine your roommate moaning about a burnt dinner. You say: “The oven’s a mess, anyhow, pizza’s on the way now.”

14. Be that as it may

“Be that as it may” is a formal, slightly archaic phrase that contrasts with “however” by conceding a point before asserting another. It’s measured and diplomatic, ideal for debates or writing where you want to sound fair yet firm.

Unlike “however,” it carries a tone of inevitability, making it a sophisticated choice for nuanced discussions.

Example 1: Suppose your boss questions your late report. You explain: “The data took time to compile, be that as it may, it’s thorough and ready now.”

Example 2: Imagine your friend debating a movie’s plot holes. You say: “The ending was shaky, be that as it may, the acting was top-notch.”

15. Having said that

“Having said that” is a conversational bridge from “however,” acknowledging what’s been mentioned before flipping to a new angle.

It’s smooth and modern, fitting both casual and semi-formal contexts where you want to balance respect for the prior point with a fresh perspective.

Compared to “however,” it feels more collaborative and less abrupt.

Example 1: Picture your mom praising your cooking but noting a flaw. She says: “The sauce was tangy, having said that, a bit less salt next time would be perfect.”

Example 2: Imagine your teammate reviewing a presentation. They note: “The slides were bold, having said that, we should tweak the font for clarity.”

Conclusion

Digging into “other ways to say however” reveals a handy lineup of words like “but,” “nevertheless,” and “anyway” that spice up your conversations or writing with ease. It’s all about finding the right fit for your vibe!

Check out the Other Ways To Say for more ideas—grab a few, try them out, and make your words pop today!